As part of measures to promote domestic trade and enhance the demand for local products, the Trade Ministry has launched a “Made in Ghana” street fair.
The ministry is optimistic the fair will not only drive Ghanaians to patronize locally made products, but it will also advance and facilitate projects from individuals and the private sector.
Government has consistently made clear its intentions to promote made in Ghana products to both local and the foreign market.
Launching the fair in Accra, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Carlos Ahenkorah entreated Ghanaians to patronize and use Ghanaian products.
“Domestic trade or patronizing Made in Ghana goods is of concern to the ministry. So, as part of the plan or strategy to get this done, the ministry has decided that on the 16th and 17th of this month, we are engaging Ghanaians to come and see what is actually manufactured here in Ghana” he said.
On his part, the Director General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Professor Alex Dodoo said his outfit will ensure that the products meet the needs and requirements of the purchaser.
“It is our responsibility as people working for and with government to ensure that Made in Ghana meet the consumers’ needs and it starts with quality. Quality and standard are the language of trade. The goods, product or service must be fit for a purpose” he stated.
He added that “Once the companies have what it takes and the quality, we will together with the ministry of trade promote their business internationally because we believe that goods make in Ghana should be good both for local and export”.
He further cautioned businesses to use the right means to do business and refrain from using illegal ways.
“Cutting corners is terrible for business. For instance, export. A lot of people have exported goods without passing through the right channels. They don’t come to the GSA to check for quality and the goods are returned whenever they practice this act. We on the other hand will make sure that quality is not compromised” he warned.
As part of the street fair, eight ambassadors have so far been selected.
They include Akumaa Mama Zimbi, Emelia Arthur as well as Sherry Thompson.
The street fair which is on the theme “Buy Ghana Build Ghana” comes off at the Osu oxford street in Accra.
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By: Jessica Ayorkor Aryee/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana.